23 Apr 2019 | 08:00 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Kabul ministry evacuated after credible threat received April 23
Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) in Kabul evacuated after credible threat received April 23; building placed on lockdown and movement restricted in area
Event
The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) in Kabul was evacuated on Tuesday, April 23, due to a credible threat. According to local sources, the building was placed on lockdown on Tuesday morning (local time), with movement restricted at the site.
Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected around MAIL over the coming hours.
Context
Taliban and Islamic State (IS) militants launch regular attacks on government personnel, security forces, and civilians in Afghanistan, although Kabul has experienced a period of relative calm in recent months. Such assaults are, in part, intended to undermine the perceived capacity of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) - and the Afghan government more broadly - to adequately provide security in the wake of the withdrawal of most US-led NATO forces from the country.
Advice
Individuals in Kabul are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the threatened area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
